Focus groups in Diwaniya to discuss the economic crisis experienced by women and the resulting problems

Sawtuha: Diwaniya

Within the Women’s Fund for Peace and Humanitarian Action project, the coordinator of Sawtuha Network in Diwaniyah, in cooperation with UN Women in Iraq, held three focus groups for the period 4-10 March 2020, the number of participants ranged from 20 to total the three groups’ 60 women representing different segments of society.

Discussions included the weak involvement of women in drawing up public policies and the extent of commitment to Resolution 1325 to solve problems faced by women, especially in Diwaniya, especially that they are classified as an agricultural city as they compete with the Muthanna Governorate for the first place in terms of poverty, and the economic crisis due to climate changes, drought and disruption of the only financial resource for women.

The women also discussed the consequences of the economic crisis for unemployment, high illiteracy and family violence, and the deterioration of health conditions in light of an environment dominated by customs, norms and male perception in society.

The three women’s focus groups have concluded a set of recommendations and policies to be adopted by the relevant official agencies, which will be published through an expanded report.